THOSE WHITE STRINGS AROUND THAI HOUSES ARE NOT LAUNDRY LINES.
Thai culture is immense and full of Buddhist traditions that are relatively unpracticed – and sometimes unknown – outside of the country. I do my best to get an idea of the culture; I’m definitely not an expert – but I try to get the basics. One instance, which is quite entertaining, taught me a big lesson and new-very useful-knowledge.
Making Use of the String
I had moved into a new place in an area with more Thais than expats; it was very nice. The outside of the building was covered in white string, which I had never seen before. The only string I knew of before this experience was the kind used for laundry lines. Sure it was a bit thin, but maybe it was the only option. Needless to say, my clothes ended up on that line – clothes pins and all. A few days later, my Thai landlord pulled me aside and asked me to not use the strings for my clothes. I know she instantly read the confused expression on my face and before I could ask her “why”, she explained it to me.
What I Thought Was Right, Was Wrong
Thai monks will hold the string as they chant and bless it.
The strings were intricately tied around her newly constructed building by local monks – to bless the house, or building, as well as the people residing in it. She then told me the strings would be taken down and cut into small pieces and used in further ceremonies. She, and all the other local people I spoke to, have 100% faith on the string. I sincerely apologized to her and made sure to not repeat the same mistake. She understood and before walking away, we were able to laugh about the situation that had risen.
Spotting the String
The string is sacred to the Thai people. Tying it around their head blesses them and brings them luck and prosperity.
I have not run into any more string on any more places I have lived in. However, during certain holidays, temples may have string throughout the inside and outside. Sometimes the strings will hang from the ceiling or the Buddha’s wrist; the visitors of the temple will wrap the string onto their head which is considered the holiest part of the body. After the holiday or ritual is completed, the string is cut into several small pieces and made into bracelets which are given for good luck to visitors, newlyweds, travelers and recent graduates.
A Thai monk blessing a local at a temple.
Furthering the Knowledge of the Sacred String
I would actually like to know more about the traditions of this cotton string, especially because I don’t always see it on new houses or buildings. So, if you know something that I haven’t shared with you, please share it with all of us in the comment section below.
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